5 “must see” places in Northern India
Northern India is a region full of color, culture, history and romance. You could easily spend a lifetime exploring this fascinating region, however don’t let that discourage you as the best of Northern India can be seen in just a few weeks – it’s all about knowing what to see! Don’t miss out on these 5 “must see” places in Northern India.
AGRA
Located about 204 km south of Delhi, Agra is the city of tombs and memorials.
The Taj Mahal: The iconic Taj Mahal really is as beautiful and captivating as shown in all the pictures. Spending a day exploring the Taj Mahal and the grounds will be one of the highlights of your India trip.
Agra Fort: Besides the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort is another wonderful monument that is a must visit on your tour of Agra. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; and two very beautiful mosques.
Jaipur: The Pink City
The ancient old city of Jaipur is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state, and nicknamed the “Pink City” due to the buildings being painted pink. The City Palace complex stands at the center of the city, with gardens, courtyards and museums worth discovering.
Amber: Located 11 km from Jaipur, Amber (pronounced Amer) Fort was the
ancient fortress of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber. The fort is an awesome fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Built in red sand stone and white marble, Amber reflects a marvelous aura. On the inside, the palace is decorated with painting scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror settings. The Maota Lake in the forefront strikes you with its scenic beauty.
Hawa Mahal: The Hawa Mahal (palace of winds) was constructed by the king Sawai Pratap Singh. Situated in the City Palace, this five-story structure is an architectural beauty. It has 953 pink sandstone windows known as jharokhas. The purpose behind this palace was to serve as a window for the royal ladies to watch everyday life and processions in the city from their covered comfort.
City Palace & Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum: The City Palace is also known as Chandra Mahal. A part of the palace serves as the residence of the royal family. On the ground floor and outer courtyards is the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. It has a rich collection of Mughal carpets, Mughal and Rajasthani miniature paintings, arms and weapons, rare manuscripts, royal costumes and textiles, etc.
Jodhpur: The Blue City
Exploring the medieval streets of Jodhpur’s ancient blue city is an experience that will entice all the senses. The sights of the magnificent blue architecture, the sounds of the locals going about their daily life and the smells from the street carts cooking food in the busy bazaars – the blue city will definitely leave you with a sense of both modern and historic India.
Mehrangarh Fort: One of the largest forts in India, the Mehrangarh Fort is the pride of Jodhpur. Situated on a 150 m high hill, this magnificent fort was founded in the year 1469 by Rao Jodha. The fort has seven gates, some of which still stand as a witness to the battles fought by the armies of Jodhpur. The fort houses a number of palaces inside, with extensive patios. The main palaces are Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Takht Vilas and Jhanki Mahal. A museum also finds a place inside the fort, displaying a rich collection of old royal palanquins, arms, paintings, costumes, etc. There are also a number of galleries and temples inside the fort. The Mehrangarh fort is a living proof of the expertise and hard work of Jodhpur artisans.
Udaipur: The Romantic City
It’s easy to see why Udaipur is nicknamed the “Romantic City” of India.
This stunning city is located next to the purple ridges of the Aravalli Hills on the shimmering Lake Pichola. Taking a boat ride of the lake will fulfill your experience of this romantic city.
Also known as the Venice of the east, the city Udaipur in Rajasthan, India, mesmerizes the tourists with its charm and beauty.
City Palace: it comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers still they resemble each other. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces, you will get amazed. Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) has figures of crystal and porcelain. However, Bhim Vilas flaunts a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna.
Lake Pichola: Udaipur sightseeing tour is incomplete without a visit to this lake. An artificial lake, Lake Pichola was constructed by Maharana Udai Singh II after he founded the city of Udaipur. The lake is 4 km long and 3 km wide and encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir. One of the most scenic spots of Udaipur, Lake Pichola also houses the City Palace on its eastern banks.
Varanasi: The Holy City
Sitting on the holy Ganges River, Varanasi is a city of culture, religion and enlightenment. Take a sunset boat trip down the Ganges and get a glimpse into the life and culture of the locals.
Ghats of Ganga River: Varanasi or Kashi is older than traditions. Varanasi presents a unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. It is the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity. Ghats of Ganga are perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins.
